Matthew 23:1-12

Contemporary English Version

Jesus Condemns the Pharisees and the Teachers of the Law of Moses

(Mark 12.38-40; Luke 11.37-52; 20.45-47)

23 Jesus said to the crowds and to his disciples:

² The Pharisees and the teachers of the Law are experts in the Law of Moses. ³ So obey everything they teach you, but don't do as they do. After all, they say one thing and do something else.

⁴ They pile heavy burdens on people's shoulders and won't lift a finger to help. ^5 (A) Everything they do is just to show off in front of others. They even make a big show of wearing Scripture verses on their foreheads and arms, and they wear big tassels^[a] for everyone to see. ⁶ They love the best seats at banquets and the front seats in the synagogues. ⁷ And when they are in the market, they like to have people greet them as their teachers.

⁸ But none of you should be called a teacher. You have only one teacher, and all of you are like brothers and sisters. ⁹ Don't call anyone on earth your father. All of you have the same Father in heaven. ¹⁰ None of you should be called the leader. The Messiah is your only leader. ^11 (B) Whoever is the greatest should be the servant of the others. ^12 (C) If you put yourself above others, you will be put down. But if you humble yourself, you will be honored.